


Ask the community...
One last tip - keep detailed records of your job search activities from day one. Even if you're not sure you qualify yet, start documenting job applications and contacts. Washington ESD can ask for this information going back to when you first became unemployed.
Final advice: File immediately, be completely honest, document everything about your transportation situation, and don't get discouraged if you're initially denied. The appeal process exists for exactly these kinds of situations where the circumstances are complex.
Just to close this out - getting fired for tardiness due to public transportation issues is definitely not an automatic disqualification. You have a legitimate shot at benefits, especially if you can document the transportation problems were beyond your control.
One thing I learned the hard way - if you moved states during 2023 while receiving unemployment, make sure you understand which state's taxes apply. Can get complicated fast.
Bottom line for everyone - unemployment compensation is ordinary income for federal tax purposes in 2023. No special treatment like there was in 2020. Plan accordingly and consider having taxes withheld if you're still receiving benefits.
Make sure to file online through the Washington ESD website as soon as possible. The sooner you file, the sooner your benefit year starts. Even if there's adjudication, you'll get backpay from your filing date if approved.
Good luck with your claim! Remember that getting fired doesn't automatically disqualify you - it all depends on the specific circumstances. Based on what you've described, you have a good chance of being approved.
Haley Bennett
One last tip - if you do end up needing to reach Washington ESD directly about your claim status or the contest, that Claimyr service mentioned earlier really does work. I was skeptical at first but it saved me hours of trying to get through on my own.
0 coins
Eli Butler
•I'm definitely going to try that if I can't get through the regular way. Thanks for the recommendation!
0 coins
Douglas Foster
•Same here, I used it last month when I had questions about my job search requirements. Much easier than the regular phone system.
0 coins
Nina Chan
Good luck with everything! Remember to keep filing those weekly claims no matter what happens with the contest. You don't want to miss out on benefits you're entitled to.
0 coins
Eli Butler
•Will do! I really appreciate everyone taking the time to help me understand all this.
0 coins